New Member Costume Question

[werdboync]

Hey there. Does anyone know if a kit from RS Prop Masters is an acceptable place to get my Stormtrooper Kit and be accepted into the 501st? Thank you!

[NegativeEleven]

RS is one of the best armor makers. They have molds made directly from screen used props. I've seen their Boba Fett stuff though, and it's all high quality, screen accurate, and definitely 501st approvable if you put it all together right.

They're quite expensive though and located in England, so you're adding shipping costs. I've heard they're not really good about communication and timeframes. I tried to buy a dome for my Darth Vader face a few years ago and eventually gave up after a little back and forth with them, then being completely forgotten about.

[werdboync]

Hey again!

OK, so in looking up videos and such on putting together my own kit, cutting and trimming, etc, I am a bit overwhelmed and am starting to think that if I try to do that detail work I will botch it up. Is it lame to have someone do all the trimming for me so it looks really nice?? (referring to Stormtrooper Kit). Thanks everyone!

[bobio]

It can seem overwhelming but give it a shot. If you take your time and ask lots of questions you should be able to do this...

Have you checked out the Getting Started thread at FISD, would definitely start there?

http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/forum/3 ... his-first/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Also, search for build threads both here and at FISD, you will find lots of useful information.

Start your own build thread, post questions there and show the progress as you go, you will get lots of help...

[silverBoyd]

Hey again!

OK, so in looking up videos and such on putting together my own kit, cutting and trimming, etc, I am a bit overwhelmed and am starting to think that if I try to do that detail work I will botch it up. Is it lame to have someone do all the trimming for me so it looks really nice?? (referring to Stormtrooper Kit). Thanks everyone!

It's not as hard as it seems. Go slow with your trimming. You can always take off more if need be. It's best to cut off less at a time then you can trim and reshape / resize more when fitting it to your body. Lots of info on http://www.whitearmor.net" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; too

[CrookKnight]

Hey again!

OK, so in looking up videos and such on putting together my own kit, cutting and trimming, etc, I am a bit overwhelmed and am starting to think that if I try to do that detail work I will botch it up. Is it lame to have someone do all the trimming for me so it looks really nice?? (referring to Stormtrooper Kit). Thanks everyone!

Hello,

You will enjoy this process. It can feel a little daunting at first, but we are all here to help. Just start simple.

I recommend starting with this forum: http://www.whitearmo...ead-this-first/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; it will get you going in the right direction.

If you want to see some of the builds people are currently doing then you can check out this forum: http://www.whitearmo...stunt-and-hero/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; There are some great step by step build threads in this forum.

Also, everyone on these forums are extremely helpful, just ask.

Good luck

[werdboync]

Thank you everyone for responding with wonderful information! You guys are super helpful, and I cannot wait to get my kit, start working on it, and hopefully become a member!!

[NegativeEleven]

You'll find a lot of troops in Charlotte to help. You can't really trim someone else's armor for them. That's the point. It has to fit you. You have to at least be there.

If you come down to Charleston some weekend, there's some folks here that can walk you through it, but I think it shouldn't be hard to find someone up your way. I met two new stormtroopers in Charlotte last Friday. Cheralyn Lambeth is in Charlotte and just published a book on costuming techniques that you can find at Barne's and Noble or on Amazon! She's been helping build stormtroopers and wearing her own since '98.

[silverBoyd]

The best part (and easiest parts of the armor to trim) are the biceps and shoulder bells. Start there for sure. You can get acquainted with the armor and get a feel for how it "trims".

Your best bet for info on trimming and assembling is going to be the FISD though. http://www.whitearmor.net" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

There is so much information (and pictures of how-to) within their forums. Study....study....study the Stormtrooper armoe and how it goes together and you will find it's not as hard as it seems. Good luck

[Cantina Security]

Yes, you can handle this! All above is helpful info. If you need any step by step guidance , I don't mind answering any questions , on here, email, or FaceBook. Good luck!

[werdboync]

Shins!
OK, building my TK, and the shin guards are making me nuts! The fit nice and snug in the back, but not sure how to secure them. They came with the elastic with little hooks, but that seems awkward. What is the best way to keep them secure...velcro? straps? hooks? other suggestions welcome!

[silverBoyd]

Shins!
OK, building my TK, and the shin guards are making me nuts! The fit nice and snug in the back, but not sure how to secure them. They came with the elastic with little hooks, but that seems awkward. What is the best way to keep them secure...velcro? straps? hooks? other suggestions welcome!

The "bra hook" system with elastic (which is what it sounds like you are describing) is the screen accurate way it was done for ANH I believe. Although many, myself included, use long - thin strips of Velcro to close the back of my shin armor.

[werdboync]

Shins!
OK, building my TK, and the shin guards are making me nuts! The fit nice and snug in the back, but not sure how to secure them. They came with the elastic with little hooks, but that seems awkward. What is the best way to keep them secure...velcro? straps? hooks? other suggestions welcome!

The "bra hook" system with elastic (which is what it sounds like you are describing) is the screen accurate way it was done for ANH I believe. Although many, myself included, use long - thin strips of Velcro to close the back of my shin armor.

I was hoping someone would say that....I am about ready to scream with these little hooks! Thank you!!

[NegativeEleven]

Those hooks are useful in some applications (tactical vest on my Cobra Viper... before I replaced em with a zipper), they're a pain if you can't see them (like on the collar of my olive drab imperial officer).

[werdboync]

Hey!

Anyone have any suggestions on how to keep the Posterior piece of a TK from sort of riding up on the kidney piece?

Thank you!